- “She left us with her ‘One Love, Keep us Together’ song,” says Obi
The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi on Wednesday gave insight into the last moments of iconic Nigerian songster, Onyeka Onwenu, saying that she is devastated by her death.
Obi, who was one of those who was with the late Onwenu in her final moments, said that “just about a few minutes after her performance, she sat down and drank some water and immediately collapsed, and was rushed to the hospital.
“I followed her to the hospital. I watched in pain as the doctors and medical staff fought tirelessly and battled to save her life, doing everything possible to bring her back to life but eventually came out with the sad news that she was gone.”
This is just as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended his profound condolences to the family of the late Ms. Onyeka Onwenu.
A statement by Presidential Spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, said: “President Tinubu mourns the passing of the Queen of Songs, whose edifying and mellifluous rendition, ‘One Love’, in the 1990s evoked a fervour of fellowship and harmony.
“The President recalls the many artistic interventions of the late musical icon in promoting public good, noting her classic collaboration with King Sunny Ade on ‘Wait for Me’, a melodic campaign on family planning in the 1980s.
“President Tinubu celebrates the life of the versatile and extremely gifted artiste who applied herself to the whole gamut of artistic enterprise and expression, bringing joy and laughter to many.
“The President condoles with the entertainment industry, the Imo State Government, and the numerous fans of the departed star over this immeasurable loss.
“President Tinubu prays for the repose of the soul of the deceased artiste and that she finds a place yonder where the music never fades and where there is ‘Dancing in the Sun.’
“The President states that Ms. Onwenu lives on in her immortal masterpieces.”
Peter Obi, writing on his X handle, said: “Yesterday provided a totally devastating moment for me as I witnessed a tragic event that will forever be etched in my memory.
“I was present at the event where the iconic song star, Onyeka Onwenu, performed a couple of her songs ending up with her famous song, ‘One Love Keep Us Together’.
“It was a beautiful performance, but little did we know it would be her final bow. Just about a few minutes after her performance, she sat down and drank some water and immediately collapsed, and was rushed to the hospital.
“I followed her to the hospital. I watched in pain as the doctors and medical staff fought tirelessly and battled to save her life, doing everything possible to bring her back to life but eventually came out with the sad news that she was gone.
“Despite their valiant efforts, she sadly passed away after over two hours of intense struggle.
“My heart goes out to her children and family, friends, and loved ones during this difficult time. May we find the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss.
“Onwenu was a national treasure, a shining star who inspired generations with her music, activism, and strong dedication to the arts. Her passing is a tremendous loss for the entire nation, and she will be deeply missed.
“I want to thank everyone who together with us accompanied her to the hospital yesterday. Special thanks to Mr. and Mrs John Momoh, Mr and Mrs Okonkwo, and Mr Okpara, who were with her during her last moments. Governor Alex Otti joined us also and Mr. Femi Ajayi who equally returned to the hospital this morning when we had to finalized everything about her passing.
“May her soul rest in peace and may her legacy continue to inspire and unite us all.
“My condolences to her family, the entertainment industry, and the nation at large. May we find solace in the memories we shared with her and the impact she had on our lives.”
Meanwhile, Labour Party stalwart and frontline Governorship hopeful in Anambra State, Valentine Ozigbo, in mourning Onwenu in a statement, said:
“It is with great shock that we woke up this morning with the shocking news of the death of Nigeria’s veteran singer, songwriter, actress, activist and patriot, Onyeka Onwenu. She was a dear friend and big sister to me.
“A great patriot who returned to Nigeria in 1980 to contribute to the growth of her fatherland after her studies in the United States (U.S.) and stint as a staff of the United Nations, Onyeka Onwenu’s career crisscrossed the broadcasting, music, acting, politics, and public service.
“She brought joy to Nigerians through her music, thrilling audiences with her superlative elegant performances. Blending genres such as highlife, reggae, and pop, Onyeka used her music to also address social and political issues, with some of her most popular songs, including “Iyogogo,” “Ekwe,” “For the Love of You,” “Bia Nulu,” “Ochie Dike,” “You and I,” and “One Love.” These songs are still evergreen.
“A fighter for justice and lover of Nigeria, especially the place of Ndigbo, Onyeka Onwenu acted in several Nollywood films. Recognised as one of the pioneers of modern Nigerian music, she received numerous awards in Nigerian society, including the National Honors of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in 2011, and was recorded as one of the most influential women in Nigeria by various organisations.
“A role model, she influenced a generation of young Nigerians, especially in the entertainment and media sector. Her creative genius and uncompromising stand for integrity and justice will be sorely missed.
“I bid farewell to this extraordinary Nigerian and great daughter of Ndigbo who was a trailblazer. The world will miss the passion, courage, honesty, and dependability she brought to everything she put her hands on.
“My heartfelt condolences go to the Onwenu family of Arondizuogu, Imo State, her family and children, friends, associates, and the Nigerian entertainment industry.”
Earlier, Onyeka Onwenu’s Children – Abraham and Tijani Ogunlende, had issed a statement “with heavy hearts,” as they announced the passing of their mother.
The family said: “She was rushed to the hospital after an amazing last performance, where doctors made every effort to save her life… sadly she passed.
“Onyeka Onwenu was a National Treasure! An Icon and Legend, who inspired multiple generations of Nigerians and people around the world with her Music, Acting, Philanthropy and Hunanitarian Efforts.
“She is greatly loved and missed!
“We would like to extend our thanks to those who were with her in her final moments. And to the general public for their concern and support.
“Specifically, we are deeply grateful to Mr. Peter Obi, Mr. and Mrs. John Momoh and Mr. and Mrs. Okonkwo as well as Messrs Ajayi and Mr. Okpara all of whom were with her during her last moments. Governor Alex Otti joined to condole us soon after her passage.
“We are also appreciative of Reddington Hospital and all their staff for their efforts.
“As we take the time to make the necessary plans, we would like you all to take the time to remember her life, the contributions she made and the impact she made on so many lives, including ours.”